Beverley: Corrie leads fight against ageism

BEVERLEY CALLARD reckons Coronation Street is breaking the mould of ageism against women in the industry. The 61-year-old, best known for her role as Rovers Return landlady Liz McDonald on the ITV soap, says she’s grateful that her character goes from strength to strength as meaty roles for women her age are virtually nonexistent elsewhere.

“Our business is very ageist but Coronation Street is leading the fightback against that,” declares Beverley, who first hit the cobbles in 1989.

“It features strong women and shows that when you reach 55 your love life isn’t finished.

“Liz will be wearing Lycra and high heels when she’s hobbling down the street. It’s fantastic.”

However, the actress, who has grown-up children Rebecca and Josh, admits that, despite proudly representing women her age on the small screen, she’s only human and has succumbed to one aspect of her industry’s obsession with youth.

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“I hate looking at photographs of myself and even if I’m doing an interview on screen, I’d rather not watch it,” says Beverley, who has been married to her fourth husband, recording studio owner Jon McEwan, since 2010.

“I think I need to save up for a great cosmetic surgeon. If I had the money I’d be there now.